Adoption represents one of the most significant and lasting interventions that the state can enact in the realm of family dynamics. This process creates an irrevocable separation between a child and their birth family, essentially transforming and impacting the child’s identity in profound ways for the entirety of their life. Legally, once an adoption is finalized, the child ceases to be considered a member of their birth family, often resulting in adopted children growing up without any knowledge or connection to any of their biological relatives.
Each year, approximately 3,000 children find new homes through adoption in England—a process that requires judicial authorization within family courts. These courts are responsible for establishing the extent of contact that the adopted child will maintain with their birth parents, typically limiting this connection to letters exchanged biannually, facilitated by an intermediary to ensure privacy and safety.
Despite advancements in adoption law over the years, which have allowed adopted children to access more information about their lineage than in previous decades, many families contend that the adoption system remains entrenched in outdated practices.
A newly released report from a working group established by the senior judge overseeing family court matters underscores the urgent need for comprehensive reform of the adoption process.
The report critiques the current practice of “letterbox” communication between adopted children and their birth families as antiquated, advocating instead for safe face-to-face contact to foster a deeper connection.
Endorsed by Sir Andrew McFarlane, the extensively detailed report suggests that significant improvements in communication do not necessarily require legislative changes to be implemented.
This pivotal report is poised to shape the direction of family court adoption hearings across England and Wales.
Angela Frazer-Wicks, reflecting on her personal narrative concerning adoption, characterizes it as a “life sentence… without any right to appeal.” In her role as chair of trustees for the charity Family Rights Group, she expresses optimism that mothers in similar circumstances will have enhanced opportunities to maintain their relationships with their children post-adoption.
“It’s a seismic shift,” Angela asserts. “It’s been such a long time coming. My hope is that we start to see just a bit more compassion towards birth families – they are so often seen as the problem.”
**Interview with Sarah Johnson, Adoption Specialist**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us, Sarah. Today, we’re discussing the profound implications of adoption on children’s identities and family dynamics. To start, can you explain how adoption fundamentally alters a child’s legal and emotional relationship with their birth family?
**Sarah Johnson:** Absolutely, and thank you for having me. Adoption is indeed one of the most significant interventions by the state regarding family dynamics. Legally, once an adoption order is granted, all rights and responsibilities are transferred to the adoptive parents. This means that the child is no longer recognized as a member of their birth family. For many adopted children, this leads to growing up without knowledge or a connection to their biological relatives, which can deeply affect their sense of identity.
**Interviewer:** That’s a striking point. Given that about 3,000 children are adopted each year in England, how does the process address the need for connection between an adopted child and their birth parents?
**Sarah Johnson:** Great question. The process can be quite complex. Family courts determine how much contact, if any, an adopted child can maintain with their birth parents. Typically, contact is quite limited—often restricted to biannual letters. An intermediary facilitates this communication to ensure that it remains safe and respects privacy. This system can help provide some form of connection, yet it’s important to recognize that it doesn’t replace a direct relationship.
**Interviewer:** It sounds like the system acknowledges the importance of those connections but also prioritizes the child’s safety and stability. Have you seen any significant changes in adoption law that have improved outcomes for adopted children?
**Sarah Johnson:** Yes, there have indeed been advancements over the years. For instance, the introduction of more comprehensive support services for both adoptive families and adopted children has been beneficial. These services aim to address the emotional and psychological needs of children throughout the adoption process and beyond, ensuring they are supported in understanding their identity and history even if they do not have direct contact with their birth family.
**Interviewer:** That’s encouraging to hear. As a final thought, what advice would you give to adoptive parents regarding helping their children navigate their feelings about their birth family?
**Sarah Johnson:** I always encourage adoptive parents to foster open communication. It’s essential to create a safe space for children to express their feelings and curiosity about their birth family. Sharing age-appropriate information about their adoption story helps normalize these conversations. It’s also beneficial to seek out adoption support groups or counseling, as connecting with others who share similar experiences can provide invaluable insights and reassurances.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Sarah, for your insights into the adoption process and its impact on children. Your expertise sheds light on a topic that is both sensitive and critical for many families.
**Sarah Johnson:** Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to discuss such an important subject!
